Particle.news

Larson’s Late Block Triggers Atlanta Stage 2 Crash, Wallace Wins on Review

A timing review by officials set Bubba Wallace as the Stage 2 winner at the moment of caution.

Overview

  • Kyle Larson moved low to block Shane van Gisbergen on the final lap of Stage 2, got sideways entering the tri-oval, and hit the outside wall hard.
  • Larson’s No. 5 sustained terminal damage, was towed off, and the 2025 Cup champion exited the car after a strong run inside the top five.
  • NASCAR used timing loops and video to determine the order when the caution flew, overturning the initial impression and crediting Bubba Wallace with the stage win.
  • Van Gisbergen slid through the grass with flat-spotted tires and restarted deep in the field before a separate Lap 199 spin, reporting his car had gotten loose.
  • Larson took full responsibility in a TV interview, calling it his mistake and saying he misjudged van Gisbergen’s position while reacting to the draft.